The BMW M5 (G90) 4.4 V8 (727 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid M xDrive M Steptronic represents the latest iteration of BMW’s iconic high-performance sedan, launched in July 2024. This variant signifies a pivotal shift for the M5, integrating a plug-in hybrid powertrain into its traditionally gasoline-powered formula. It’s built on the G90 platform, the eighth generation of the M5, and aims to deliver both exhilarating performance and improved efficiency. Positioned as the flagship of the G90 lineup, it offers the highest power output and most advanced technology available in the model range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M5 |
| Generation | M5 (G90) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.4 V8 (727 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid M xDrive M Steptronic |
| Start of production | July, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.6-1.7 l/100 km (147 – 138.4 US mpg, 176.6 – 166.2 UK mpg, 62.5 – 58.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 37-39 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.3 kg/Hp, 298.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.4 kg/Nm, 410.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 22.1 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 18.6 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 347.5 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 67-69 km (41.63 – 42.87 mi) |
| All-electric range | 40 km (24.85 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 25-25.5 kWh/100 km (40.23 – 41.04 kWh/100 mi, 84 – 82 MPGe, 4 – 3.9 km/kWh, 2.5 – 2.4 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 197 Hp @ 6000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1000-5000 rpm) |
| Electric motor Torque | 280 Nm @ 1000-5000 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 727 Hp |
| System torque | 1000 Nm (737.56 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 585 Hp @ 5600-6500 rpm |
| Torque | 750 Nm @ 1800-5400 rpm (553.17 lb.-ft. @ 1800-5400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S68B44T0 |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 13.2 l (13.95 US qt | 11.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2435 kg (5368.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2940 kg (6481.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 505 kg (1113.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 466 l (16.46 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5096 mm (200.63 in.) |
| Width | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2156 mm (84.88 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3006 mm (118.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1660 mm (65.35 in.) |
| Front overhang | 934 mm (36.77 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1156 mm (45.51 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 115 mm (4.53 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the rear wheels of the vehicle, capable of running in full electric or mixed mode, and if necessary through the electrically or mechanically controlled clutch, the front wheels are driven. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission M Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 410 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 398 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), 4-wheel steering (4WS, active rear steering) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 285/40 ZR20, Rear wheel tires: 295/35 ZR21 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 10.5J x 20, Rear wheel rims: 11J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the G90 M5 is the S68B44T0 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, paired with a powerful electric motor. The combustion engine produces 585 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the electric motor adds another 197 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a combined system output of 727 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilizes direct injection and BMW’s VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS technologies for optimized efficiency and responsiveness. The electric motor is integrated between the engine and the 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. This configuration allows for both all-electric driving and a seamless blend of power from both sources. The 18.6 kWh usable battery capacity provides a WLTP-rated all-electric range of 67-69 km (41.63 – 42.87 miles).
Driving Characteristics
The M5’s plug-in hybrid system dramatically alters its driving experience. In electric mode, it offers near-silent acceleration and impressive torque, suitable for city driving. Switching to hybrid mode allows the car to leverage the combined power of the engine and motor, delivering blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. The 8-speed M Steptronic transmission is tuned for both rapid shifts and smooth operation. Compared to previous M5 generations, the G90 offers a more refined and versatile driving experience, with the ability to prioritize efficiency or outright performance as desired. The all-wheel-drive system, M xDrive, provides exceptional traction and stability, particularly in challenging conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G90 M5 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of luxury and performance features. Interior appointments include premium leather upholstery, M Sport seats, and a high-resolution curved display integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment system. Standard technology includes BMW’s iDrive 8.5 operating system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and a premium sound system. Optional extras include carbon fiber trim, upgraded leather options, and a head-up display. The M5 also offers customizable driving modes, allowing drivers to tailor the car’s performance characteristics to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The G90 M5 features a sophisticated chassis designed to maximize handling and stability. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone design with a transverse stabilizer, while the rear employs an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. Large ventilated disc brakes (410mm front, 398mm rear) provide exceptional stopping power. The car is equipped with ABS, active rear steering, and an electronically controlled suspension system that adapts to road conditions and driving style.
Market Reception & Comparison
The introduction of the plug-in hybrid M5 has been met with generally positive reviews. Critics praise its impressive performance, refined ride quality, and improved fuel efficiency compared to previous generations. The hybrid system adds complexity, but BMW has largely succeeded in integrating it seamlessly into the M5 experience. Compared to the non-hybrid M5 variants, the PHEV model offers a broader range of driving experiences, from silent electric cruising to exhilarating all-out performance. Fuel economy is significantly improved in hybrid mode, and the all-electric range provides a practical benefit for daily commuting.
Legacy
The BMW M5 (G90) 4.4 V8 (727 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid M xDrive M Steptronic represents a significant step forward for the M5 lineage. Its integration of a plug-in hybrid powertrain demonstrates BMW’s commitment to both performance and sustainability. While long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, BMW’s reputation for engineering excellence suggests that the G90 M5 will prove to be a durable and rewarding vehicle. In the used car market, this variant is expected to command a premium due to its advanced technology and unique driving experience.
